Why offer navigation for dealing with cancer?

A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming to patients and their families. Coordinating physician visits, appointments and treatments can be time-consuming and stressful. We’re committed to helping you during your cancer journey. Through our navigator program you’ll have a specially-trained nurse who will be with you every step of the way.

How does it work?

From your diagnosis through treatment and follow-up, a nurse navigator is available to provide personalized care for you as a dedicated member of your cancer team. The navigator can clarify and reinforce information about your diagnosis and treatment, and identify and work through barriers to care. We can help you locate services and support systems, provide patient resources and empower you to become an informed participant in your cancer care.

Who can receive navigation services?

Any patient with a cancer diagnosis who is receiving care by a physician of Prevea, HSHS St. Vincent Hospital, HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital Medical Center, HSHS St. Nicholas Hospital or HSHS St. Clare Memorial Hospital.

What is the cost of navigation services?

Nurse navigator services are provided at no cost to the patient. This is a Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS) mission-supported service for cancer patients and their families.

How does the oncology nurse navigator get involved?

Any member of the health care team may make a referral to the oncology nurse navigator. This includes: physicians, nurses, physical and occupational therapists, counselors, social workers, chaplains or dietitians. Anyone who is receiving care at Prevea or HSHS-Eastern Wisconsin Division Hospitals (listed above) may also request a contact from a nurse navigator.

Nurse navigators and the American Cancer Society

When you or a loved one hear the words “You have cancer,” you may experience a number of feelings. But one thing you don’t have to feel is alone. Throughout your cancer journey, our nurse navigators and the American Cancer Society are here to guide you.

A nurse navigator can provide extensive cancer information and research and connect you to local and national resources such as:

• Available ground and air transportation
• Lodging resources
• Assistance with wigs and head coverings
• Prosthesis options
• Resources and available financial assistance
• Information on local and national support groups
• Camps and survivor retreats
• Wish granting organizations
• Insurance coordination
• Financial resources and co-pay assistance
• Family and caregiver support … and so much more.